Since 1949 the Great Bend Optimist Club has been serving the community as a “Friend of Youth.” Chartered on May 5, 1949, the Great Bend Optimist Club will celebrate its 75th anniversary in May. Recently, the Kansas District Optimist Governor, Judy Morris from Derby, visited Great Bend to offer her congratulations on reaching this milestone anniversary. In addition, she presented the Great Bend Club with a letter from Optimist International President Tracy Huxley. In the letter, President Huxley says “It is good to remember where we come from. After you look back, do not forget to look ahead. Use the experiences of the past 75 years as the firm foundation for the next 75 years. The needs of our youth and our communities may have changed, but they are ever present.  Continue to make a positive impact on your community. Your Optimism is needed now more than ever.”  

Local Club President Randy Goering said, “the Great Bend Club has supported the youth of the community with a variety of service projects over the past 75 years. The Club annually provides scholarships to graduating Seniors, hosts a Pitch Hit and Run competition, and supports, financially, a number of projects including Camp Hope, Santa’s Workshop, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Sully’s Foundation, and HOBY. This May the Club is reviving their Youth Appreciation program.” The recently completed Sloppy Joe Dinner is the main fundraiser for the Club’s annual youth projects.  

The Great Bend Optimist Club is open to all people interested in supporting the youth of the community. The Club meets every Monday (except major holidays) at noon at the Walnut Bowl in Great Bend.